Thousands of hands once reached towards Senju Midoricho. This wasn’t a literal thousand-handed Kannon statue though. It was the Chiba clan’s influence. Some say the name Senju itself means ‘place where the Chiba clan lived’. Their presence shaped early Senju Midoricho.
Senju Midoricho boasts a rich history. It served as the first post station on the Nikko-kaido Road. This was a crucial route connecting Edo to Nikko. Imagine the constant flow of travelers merchants and officials. Their journeys all started or ended at Senju Midoricho. This strategically important location flourished.
The construction of the Senju-ohashi Bridge in 1594 further cemented its importance. This bridge spanned the Arakawa River the present-day Sumida-gawa River. It drastically improved transport. The area became a bustling hub of activity. The construction of mausoleums for Tokugawa Ieyasu and Tokugawa Iemitsu in Nikko in 1625 further boosted its prosperity.
Senju Midoricho wasn’t just a transit point. It was a center for commerce too. From the Kyoho Era onwards daily morning markets thrived. These markets rivaled even Nihonbashi’s famous fish markets. Think of the sights smells and sounds. Imagine the bustling energy of these markets. This area contributed significantly to Edo’s prosperity.
The Kawagoe yofune evening ships linked Kawagoe and Edo. Senju Midoricho was a crucial stop for these ships. They carried tourists goods and even fresh fish. This is a lesser-known fact about Senju Midoricho’s contribution to Edo’s economy.
A darker side to Senju Midoricho’s history is also worth noting. Kozukahara in the south housed an execution ground. In 1771 Sugita Genpaku and Maeno Ryotaku studied autopsies there. This dark history adds a layer of complexity to the area. It shows the duality of life in Edo period Japan.
The Ekoin Temple established in 1667 stands as a solemn reminder. It held memorial services for those who died in prison or were executed. This temple serves as a poignant counterpoint to the area’s bustling marketplaces and its position as a crucial transport hub. It speaks to the darker realities of life in Edo-era Japan.
Senju Midoricho stands as a testament. It’s a place where vibrant commerce dark history and strategic importance intertwine. It’s a place that whispers tales of a bygone era. It remains an integral part of Tokyo’s rich tapestry.